Rugby UnionOLs held at Pinley

OLs were held to a frustrating Midlands Three West draw at Pinley in an instantly forgettable encounter which was littered with constant stoppages.

OLs began well with the forwards taking control and a Pinley forward was yellow carded for foul play at an early maul.

The extra man advantage was quickly turned into points when prop Craig Ellis broke from the back of a rolling maul to cross for a fiith minute try which Mark Foley converted.

It was not a game for purists with both sides guilty of infringements although OLs appeared to be on the wrong side of the majority of the decisions.

Despite these frustrations, further pressure on the Pinley defences saw the ball pass along the line for Foley to cross for the second try which he also converted to secure a comfortable 14 point lead.

From this point the game deteriorated with Pinley appearing more intent on physical play than enjoying any form of open rugby.

When the ball was moved away from the Pinley forwards the home backs were unable to create any space or movement due to consistently good OLs tackling.

However, the number of penalties being awarded to Pinley eventually told as the hosts gradually clawed their way back into game by converting two of the kicks.

Pinley scored a pushover try midway through the second half and drew level from another penalty kick awarded late in the game.

OLs continued to exert pressure and were presented with a chance to win the game in the closing stages when they were awarded a rare penalty which was narrowly missed.

The game was not pretty to watch and generally spoilt by repeated and unnecessary stoppages.